Risk of Blood Clots after Cosmetic Surgery
Patients considering any cosmetic surgery should be made aware of not only the benefits, but also the risks, of undergoing the procedure. It is important to remember that although the procedure will most likely be elective, it is still an actual surgery. It will have the same risks as any other type of surgery. The staff at Jefferson Plastic Surgery is dedicated to helping patients make the best possible informed decision about cosmetic surgery by presenting them with both the benefits and the risks of the procedure. Formation of blood clots is one such risk within the first week after the cosmetic procedure.
Causes of Blood Clots
Blood clots may form as a result of the body’s natural defense mechanism to stop excessive bleeding. Platelets in the blood rush to the site of injury and clump together to staunch the bleeding. They will also release certain chemicals to speed along the clotting process. Because the body processes surgery as an injury, its natural response will be to try to form clots within the crucial first week following the cosmetic procedure.
Although blood clots can be beneficial in terms of stopping excessive bleeding, the danger comes if they break off and block a vital artery, such as to the heart, lungs, or brain. Possible signs of clot formation include swelling of the feet, ankles, and calves; shortness of breath; or difficulty or changes in breathing. If patients suspect they may have developed a serious blood clot, they should call Jefferson Plastic Surgery right away to schedule a follow-up visit.
Preventing Blood Clot Formation
Patients should wear compression knee stockings during and after the surgical procedure. The constant pressure from the socks will prevent blood and other fluid from pooling in the feet and legs by improving circulation to the extremities.
Keeping well hydrated will also prevent formation of blood clots. Appropriate water intake keeps blood and other fluids moving properly so that platelets will not clump together to form clots. A good rule of thumb is to drink at least 64 ounces of water per day.
Patients should try to keep their feet and lower legs elevated above heart level when they are lying down. Again, this will stimulate free flow of blood and fluids throughout the body. The easiest way to accomplish this is by propping the feet and lower legs up with pillows or towels.
Finally, it is vitally important to not sit or stand in one position for too long. This will allow the blood to pool at the ankles, where it may form clots that can break off. Patients are strongly encouraged to walk around as much as possible within the first 24 hours following the surgical procedure. Even moving just a bit each day will keep the blood circulation flowing to the lower extremities.
Most patients will be in the clear from the likelihood of blood clots within the first week following surgery. Although the risk of forming blood clots is low, there are some simple steps patients can take to minimize the risk even further. Contact Jefferson Plastic Surgery to learn more.